The NFU has announced the appointment of its new head of strategic communications.

Fran Barnes will join the NFU from her current position as editor at the BBC.

Martin Haworth, NFU director of policy and communications, said: “I am delighted to announce we have appointed Fran Barnes to the post of head of strategic communications.

“Fran has almost 20 years of experience in the BBC and is currently editor of farming, food and rural affairs programmes on Radio 4. She has extensive knowledge of farming and farming issues and is already familiar with the NFU.

“She joins an excellent communications team in Stoneleigh and I very much look forward to working with her.”

He added: “We are in discussion about Fran’s starting date and I will make a further announcement as soon as possible.”